A Naha family has welcomed the first baby born at the new Naha Birthing Centre since its official opening, the Ministry of Health and Medical Services and the Australian High Commission said.
Helma Sikekolo delivered a healthy baby boy weighing 3.2 kilograms at 12:40am on 8 October 2026. She thanked the nurses and doctor who cared for her during labour and delivery.
Her husband, Mr Vatopu, thanked the health workers for the safe delivery of his wife and baby, and acknowledged the Australian and Solomon Islands governments for setting up the facility.
The couple's two older daughters were born at the National Referral Hospital and at Gizo Hospital. The family now lives at Naha 2 and welcomed the chance to use birthing services closer to home.
"Having this facility close to home made a big difference for our family. It gave us confidence knowing my wife could access care nearby when time came to give birth," Mr Vatopu said.
Acting Permanent Secretary Dr Gregory Jilini said the safe delivery of the first baby at the Naha Birthing Unit was an important milestone for the health system and for the families it serves.
Dr Jilini said the facility brings maternity services closer to communities and helps mothers get skilled care through pregnancy, labour and delivery. He congratulated Sikekolo and her family and acknowledged the work of nurses, midwives and doctors providing maternal and newborn care.
The ministry remains committed to improving access to safe and reliable health services for all Solomon Islanders, Dr Jilini said.
Australian High Commissioner Jeff Roach said the first birth was a special moment for the new centre and for the community. He said the centre was there to help mothers and babies get safe, quality care closer to home, and that Australia was part of that work.
The Naha Birthing Unit has begun providing 24/7 low-risk birthing services as part of the Naha Birthing and Urban Health Centre's move to full round-the-clock operation, the ministry said.